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A bone marrow transplant is used in the treatment of certain types of cancer and non-cancerous conditions. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue that is located inside the long bones. The blood cells and platelets are produced within the bone marrow. The cells have a vital role in keeping the body healthy and free of disease. The red blood cells pick up and carry oxygen from the lungs and distribute this oxygen to the rest of the body. White blood cells fight invading infections. Platelets allow the blood to clot, for example, after injury from a cut or scrape.
A bone marrow transplant is used to: - enhance or restore a person's immune response or supply of blood cells or
- replace diseased or destroyed bone marrow with normal functioning bone marrow
The procedure involves finding a bone marrow donor who has a similar genetic makeup to the patient. Bone marrow for a transplant can come from: - a tissue-matched family member
- a tissue-matched unrelated donor or
- the patient, who can have healthy cells stored for future use, if needed
The next step is to collect the marrow from the donor's hipbone. This is done under general anaesthesia using a special syringe and needle. The donor's marrow is given to the patient by vein, like a blood transfusion. The marrow finds its way to the inside of major bones and begins to produce new and normal blood cells in about two weeks. Until the new bone marrow starts to produce new blood cells, the patient is at increased risk for infection, bleeding, and reactions to the new marrow. During this time, precautions are taken to prevent infections. Platelets are given to control bleeding. Article #6472 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
